6/27/13

When ISTE Doesn't Offer the Session, Go Find It

Some of the best sessions happened away from the conference center, in the in-between times.

I had a list of things I wanted to learn about:

How to differentiate instruction in app development for student coding

Using Raspberry Pi in maker spaces

Engaging students in social justice through partner city projects

Maker spaces in low-SES contexts (and also how to set up an open environment while still keeping it safe)

Technology integration in ELL classrooms (my context this last year)

I quickly realized, after looking at the ISTE app, that the conference tended to cater toward a broad audience and toward those who are new to technology. They also tended to focus less on the context and more on the platforms being used (tons of app-tastic stuff). I have experience with blogging, podcasting and multimedia design. I know how to use apps.

Initially, I wanted to criticize the conference. I wanted to make big, bold statements about the focus of educators. I wanted to stand on a pedestal and judge. But then something snapped in me. I realized that I was at a booth next to someone who was doing amazing things in her school.

So, I asked questions. I crafted my own sessions uses a much more human search engine of "Does anyone know anyone who does programming with middle school kids?"

I found someone who taught design and computer code and he brought me over to someone else who shared a ton of resources with me. We talked about the possibilities and limitations of Raspberry Pi and he shared some ideas about robotics and Python. I met up, yet again, with Gregory Hill, to talk about how we navigate the chaos of maker spaces in low-SES contexts.

I met up with Lisa Dabbs and Jeremy Macdonald and talked about ELL strategies. It wasn't just a sharing of ideas. It was also a sharing of our own shared experience in teaching that subject. I hung out for hours with Philip Cummings (below), talking about how to do project-based learning and how to find books that boys love.

Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed the sessions I went to. I enjoyed the experience of getting to know people in person that I already know online. I enjoyed hearing about people's passions for things outside of education (photography, ultimate frisbee, etc.). However, I also enjoyed having one-on-one conversations about people who have the wisdom, expertise and experience in areas where I am just beginning to explore.

I still attended ISTE. I still went to the formal, prepared sessions. However, when they didn't have what I was looking for, I found people and asked questions.

JOHN SPENCER Professor of Instructional Technology
I want to see kids embrace creativity. As a teacher, this meant murals, documentaries, STEM camps, and coding projects. As a dad, this has meant elaborate pillow forts and home-made pinball machines and the story of non-magical wizard who makes robots. It's also why I co-founded Write About. Interested in having me speak or consult on design thinking and creativity? Visit my speaking page and fill out the contact form at the bottom. I'll get back to you within 24 hours.